Maine might not be a state that automatically comes to mind when considering top colleges in the U.S., but within the New England region, it holds its own. While Maine may not have universities ranking among the top nationwide, several schools in the state consistently earn strong rankings on the national stage. These rankings offer insight into the overall quality of education and the prestige of these institutions.
In this article, I’ll discuss some of the highest-ranking colleges in Maine, based on their national performance. These universities stand out as some of the best educational institutions in the state, recognized for their excellence and impact across the U.S.
Best Colleges in Maine Based on National Rankings
Here are the top-ranking universities in Maine:
- Bowdoin College
- Bates College
- Colby College
- University of Maine
- University of New England (UNE)
- Maine Maritime Academy
- College of the Atlantic
- Husson University
Bowdoin College
Bowdoin College is widely regarded as the top university in Maine. It ranks #9 among national liberal arts colleges according to U.S. News & World Report, and Niche places it as the 5th best small college in the U.S. The college also performs strongly across various categories, with impressive rankings such as:
- 4th in Best Undergraduate Teaching
- 5th in Best Colleges for Global Studies
- 9th in National Liberal Arts Colleges
- 19th in Best Colleges for Environmental Science
Bowdoin College is recognized for its academic rigor, strong value, and diverse range of innovative programs.
Bates College
Bates College, the first co-ed institution in New England, is known for its stunning campus, which includes Victorian houses and beautifully designed academic buildings. Ranked #24 among national liberal arts colleges, Bates is the second-highest-ranking college in Maine. Its impressive rankings include:
- 5th in Best Colleges with No Application Fee
- 8th in Best Value Schools
- 14th in Best Undergraduate Teaching
- 24th in National Liberal Arts Colleges
The college offers strong programs in various disciplines and is noted for fostering innovation and academic excellence.
Colby College
Colby College is famous for its unique 4-1-4 academic calendar, which includes an intensive January term that allows students to pursue specialized experiences. It’s the 12th oldest private liberal arts college in the U.S., and its rankings reflect its prestige:
- 5th in Best Colleges with No Application Fee
- 8th in Best Value Schools
- 24th in Hardest Colleges to Get Into
- 25th in National Liberal Arts Colleges
Colby also meets 100% of demonstrated financial need with grants, making it an attractive option for students seeking both academic rigor and financial support.
University of Maine
The University of Maine is often ranked highly in various categories. It’s included in The Princeton Review’s list of Best 389 Colleges in the U.S. and stands out for programs in environmental science and engineering. Some of its rankings include:
- 86th in Nursing
- 135th in Top Public Schools
- 141st in Undergraduate Engineering Programs
- 177th in Best Colleges for Engineering
With its solid academic foundation and broad range of programs, the University of Maine continues to be a respected institution both regionally and nationally.
University of New England (UNE)
Located in Biddeford, UNE is especially known for its strong biology and healthcare programs. While not in the top 100 nationally, UNE holds its own with rankings such as:
- 260th in National Universities
- 319th in Nursing
- 360th in Best Colleges for Biology
- 516th in Colleges with the Best Professors
UNE offers a supportive academic environment and is noted for its research opportunities in the biological and healthcare sciences.
Maine Maritime Academy
Maine Maritime Academy is a well-regarded institution, particularly for students interested in maritime studies and engineering. The academy ranks highly in various categories:
- 1st in Best Colleges for Veterans
- 5th in Regional Colleges North
- 29th in Top Performers on Social Mobility
- 61st in Best Value Colleges in America
Known for its specialized programs and high job placement rates post-graduation, MMA is a top choice for students pursuing careers in marine sciences and related fields.
College of the Atlantic
The College of the Atlantic offers a unique educational experience, particularly with its focus on environmental studies. It’s also recognized for its commitment to sustainability, ranking:
- 1st in Greenest College in the U.S.
- 1st in Zero Waste College
- 5th in Top Performing Sustainable Baccalaureate Institutions
- 156th in National Liberal Arts Colleges
The college is a leader in sustainability and offers an intimate, environmentally-conscious academic environment.
Husson University
With an acceptance rate of around 91%, Husson University offers a range of programs with a strong focus on healthcare, business, and technology. It holds the following rankings:
- 53rd in Best College Food in America
- 76th in Best Colleges for Criminal Justice
- 142nd in Best College Dorms
- 251st in Best Small Colleges in America
Husson’s smaller size and supportive community create a unique environment for students to thrive.
Before You Go
These rankings come from multiple sources, including U.S. News, Princeton Review, Niche.com, and others. While rankings provide valuable insights, they don’t paint the full picture of what a college can offer. Always conduct thorough research to determine which college best aligns with your academic and personal goals.
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